MOBILE phone network EE has switched on 5G coverage in Poole.

The BT-owned operator said the town was among 35 places newly connected to the technology, making it the first Dorset town on the list.

The announcement brings the total number of UK areas served by EE's 5G network to 160.

EE also said the demand for 5G was soaring, with the company set to reach its millionth 5G customer this month.

It said the latest rollout would reach some of the UK’s most popular tourist landmarks, historic sites and coastal spots, including Sandbanks beach.

5G project will put Dorset at forefront of 'connectivity revolution'

Nick Speed, BT Group director in the South West, said: “It’s fantastic that EE has launched its 5G network in Poole, connecting more places to the next generation in mobile network technology.

“With more of us expected to holiday closer to home again this year, the fact people will have faster and more reliable connectivity is a real positive. We know how important it is for people to keep in touch with family and friends, post updates on social media, or use a navigation app to find their way around a new place, so the arrival of 5G here is a timely boost.”

Adam Richens, director of finance at Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, said: “Digital connectivity is a priority for us in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, so we’re pleased that EE is switching on its 5G network in Poole and Sandbanks Beach.

“Having faster and more reliable 5G connectivity across our three towns, will support a successful economy in great place to live work, study and visit. With more people set to take breaks and holidays closer to home this year, it will enhance our visitor experience and help our tourism and hospitality sectors to bounce back this summer.

“It will also contribute to our wider BCP Council Smart Place initiative, which aims to use innovative digital solutions to improve the lives of our residents, the vibrancy of our communities and the prospects of our local businesses.’’

Marc Allera, chief executive of BT’’s consumer division, said: “We’ve announced that we’ve switched on our award-winning 5G network in a further 35 towns and cities across the UK, fulfilling the commitment we set last year to double our 5G place count. With the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions expected in the coming weeks and months, the increased capacity and faster speeds of our 5G network will ensure our customers stay connected as footfall starts to increase in historically busy places.”

The full list of destinations whose 5G has been switched on according to EE’s announcement on Thursday, April 8, is:

Aldridge

Alexandria

Aylesbury

Ayr

Barnsley

Biggleswade

Blackburn

Bolton

Brighton

Chester

Colchester

Dundee

Exeter

Grantham

Gravesend

Harrogate

Lincoln

Milton Keynes

Norwich

Paignton

Poole

Portsmouth

Rickmansworth

Runcorn

Southport

Stockton-on-Tees

Stoke-on-Trent

Stratford-upon-Avon

Sunbury-on-Thames

Swansea

Swindon

Widnes

Wigan

Worcester

York